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SMBs and Cyber Threats: It’s Five to Midnight
According to a KPMG survey, over 60% of Quebec SMBs have been victims of cyberattacks in the past year. Phishing remains the number one threat, followed by identity theft, security exploitations, and ransomware, which can cripple a business by encrypting its data. In fact, about 67% of attacked SMBs had to pay a ransom (KPMG, 2024).
In addition to direct financial losses, businesses can face operational interruptions, a loss of trust from customers and partners, and damage to their reputation.
SMBs: Insufficient Protection Against Cyber Threats
SMBs are prime targets for cybercriminals, mainly due to limited resources. Often, their IT and OT systems are outdated, and the lack of clear guidelines for using and maintaining technological tools increases the risks. Furthermore, only 38% of employees have received proper training to detect and respond to phishing attacks.
Three Pillars for Effective Protection
While technology plays a crucial role in cybersecurity, it is just one of the three cybersecurity pillars. To effectively protect themselves and prepare for cyber threats, SMBs must adopt a holistic approach to cybersecurity, focusing on three pillars:
- People: Raising employee awareness through interactive, ongoing training and phishing campaigns enables teams to recognize threats and respond appropriately to intrusion attempts. This is essential to strengthen the first line of defense.
- Processes: Developing personalized policies and procedures, such as an incident response plan, can significantly reduce response times in case of an attack (Oversoc, 2024). To enhance effectiveness, staging a crisis management room (War Room) helps limit the risks of team disorganization during a cyberattack or technological incident.
- Technology: Using tools such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and real-time monitoring tools is crucial for detecting and preventing cyberattacks. Integrated artificial intelligence can also enhance the analysis of suspicious behaviors and the identification of unknown threats.
In 2025, cybersecurity is no longer an option, but a necessity. To survive growing threats, Quebec SMBs must adopt a comprehensive approach where every individual becomes a key player in security, implement robust processes, and invest in modern, secure technological tools. Protecting yourself today ensures your business’s longevity tomorrow.
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